Thoughtful ways to make a difference.
Sustainability in travel isn’t just about carbon offsets or reusable water bottles, though those help. It’s about choices. Conscious, informed decisions that, when made consistently, can have a meaningful impact. At The Real Thing, we believe that travelling beautifully and responsibly can go hand in hand, especially here in Spain and Portugal, where tradition, craftsmanship, and respect for the land are already deeply rooted in local culture.
For us, sustainability also means honouring heritage. We are passionate about supporting disappearing trades, protecting traditions, and encouraging travel to destinations that are off the beaten track and therefore don’t benefit from mass tourism revenues. Believing so strongly in our cultural legacy, we actively seek ways to help preserve it, ensuring that what makes our regions unique endures for future generations.
So how can you embrace sustainability during your holiday in the Iberian Peninsula without compromising on comfort, style, or experience? Here are a few meaningful ways we’ve woven sustainable practices into our journeys.
1. Stay in Hotels That Prioritize Sustainability
More and more luxury hotels across Spain and Portugal are embracing eco conscious practices. From historic properties restored with local materials to coastal resorts powered by renewable energy, we partner with hotels that are leading the way in responsible hospitality. We look for properties certified by sustainability standards or those that support local community initiatives, biodiversity protection, or zero waste kitchens.
2. Support Artisans and Buy Local
Skip the mass-produced souvenirs and invest in something meaningful: handwoven textiles from Alentejo, ceramic pieces from Andalucía, cork accessories from Portugal, or embroidered linens from Galicia. Each piece preserves heritage crafts and directly supports local makers. We can even arrange private visits to studios and workshops for a deeper connection to their stories.
3. Dine at Restaurants That Champion the Land
Many of the finest restaurants in the Iberian Peninsula are embracing the principles of sustainability: working with small scale producers, growing their own ingredients, and prioritizing seasonal, local menus. Some hold green Michelin stars or are recognized by Slow Food. Others are simply passionate chefs running small kitchens that honour their region. These meals nourish more than just the palate, they support entire ecosystems of farmers and fishers.
4. Travel Slower, Stay Longer
Opting for a slower pace, fewer destinations, longer stays, reduces your travel footprint and allows for a richer, more immersive experience. It’s also less stressful and more rewarding. Instead of hopping from city to city, choose a region (like the Basque Country, Alentejo, or the Balearics) and let it unfold naturally.
5. Engage with Nature, Respectfully
Whether hiking in the Pyrenees, birdwatching in Doñana National Park, or swimming in the crystal coves of Menorca, we can arrange nature based experiences that are low impact and locally guided. Supporting certified eco guides ensures that your presence contributes to conservation, not degradation.
6. Give Back, Quietly
Some travellers want to do more. From visiting local projects to planting native trees, we can help you give back in thoughtful, low-impact ways.
Sustainable travel doesn’t mean compromise. It often leads to richer, more meaningful experiences. In the Iberian Peninsula, where life flows with the rhythm of place and season, it feels natural to travel in a way that honours that spirit. At The Real Thing, we are committed to doing just that, curating journeys with care, respect, and joy.
- Marta Muñoz Recarte & Glòria Pou, Co-Founders
